Kim, or 콩나물볶음 (kongnamul bokkeum) in Korean, is a beloved side dish celebrated for its simplicity and refreshing crunch. This quick stir-fry features vibrant soybean sprouts, boasting a delicate flavor that's easily enhanced with a few key ingredients. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide array of Korean dishes, from hearty stews to grilled meats, offering a delightful textural contrast and a burst of fresh, clean taste. The subtle bitterness of the sprouts beautifully balances richer flavors, making it a welcome addition to any meal.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a perfectly cooked and seasoned batch of Kim, capturing its authentic Korean essence. From selecting the freshest sprouts to mastering the simple stir-frying technique, we’ll ensure you achieve a delicious and satisfying result in minutes. Ready to learn how to make this incredibly versatile and tasty side dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Soybean sprouts: 2 lb
- Red chili flakes: 1 tablespoon
- Brown onion
- Minced garlic: 1-2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce
- Cooking wine: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Green onion
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper: a little bit (optional)
- Oil: 3 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Seasonings
- Turn on the heat and add 3 tablespoons of oil to the frying pan. Once boiling, add red chili flakes.
- Add brown onion (or round onion).
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of minced garlic; stir to coat the pan with flavor.
- Add soy sauce.
- Add 1 teaspoon of cooking wine (optional) and 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional) to balance the flavor.
Step 2. Stir-fry Soybean Sprouts
- Add 2 lbs of soybean sprouts and stir to coat with the oil and spices.
- Keep stir-frying until liquid starts to come out.
- Continue stir-frying for about 5 more minutes, or until the soybean sprouts are soft.
Step 3. Finish and Garnish
- Add green onion, toasted sesame seeds, and black pepper (optional).
Step 4. Simmer and Serve
- Reduce heat to medium and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice.
Read more: Crispy Spicy Honey Garlic Korean Chicken Recipe
Tips
- You can add round onion first instead of brown onion if you prefer.
- The red chili powder dries out the oil, so add it early.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your desired spice level.
- Add a little sweetness if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen soybean sprouts instead of fresh?
While fresh sprouts are best, you can use frozen. Just make sure to thaw them completely and press out any excess water before stir-frying to prevent a soggy result.
2. What can I do if my stir-fried soybean sprouts are too bland?
Add a dash more soy sauce or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra flavor. A squeeze of sesame oil at the end also enhances the taste.
With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, Kim is a perfect addition to any weeknight meal. This refreshing and subtly flavorful side dish is sure to become a staple in your Korean cooking repertoire. So go ahead, try this recipe and enjoy the delightful crunch and taste of homemade Kim!